U.S. Space Force Brigadier General Anthony Mastalir highlighted the increasing importance of space capabilities in maintaining stability across the Indo-Pacific region during the Australian Space Summit 2025, held on May 27-28. Addressing defense leaders, industry partners, and policymakers, Mastalir discussed the evolving mission of the U.S. Space Force and the strong military alliance between the United States and Australia.
“In light of today’s challenges and the imperative for a robust, integrative response … we established U.S. Space Forces Indo-Pacific in 2022,” Mastalir stated. “Our mission remains unchanged: integrated space operations to preserve a free and open Indo-Pacific.”
Mastalir noted the recent establishment of Space Force components in South Korea and Japan, which are intended to deter threats and enhance operational integration with allies. “Guardians in these components work side by side with our allies to integrate space capabilities into military operations and protect friendly forces from space-enabled attacks,” he explained.
He emphasized Australia's vital role in U.S. defense strategy, saying, “Australia is not just a strategic partner, but a true friend, and an essential pillar of deterrence here.” He added that their nations have formed a lasting bond.
Australian Defense Force Lieutenant General Susan Coyle also participated in a joint panel discussion with Mastalir, highlighting the importance of U.S.-Australian military cooperation in space. “We have fought together since World War One,” Coyle remarked. “You don’t build friends in a crisis. You build friends now, and we have a deep shared history of that."
Both generals discussed their shared strategic vision for the Indo-Pacific region focusing on deterrence and responsible space operations. Mastalir emphasized "peace through strength," while Coyle pointed out Australia's interest in becoming "a better, more lethal and more survivable defense force that contributes to peace and security in our region."
The discussion revealed a unified approach to addressing challenges within the space domain. Both leaders stressed protecting critical space assets for joint military operations as well as developing technologies to counter emerging threats.
“Every challenge we face is also an opportunity—an opportunity to innovate, to grow stronger, and to set a shining example for the world,” Mastalir said.
With increasing challenges in space, U.S. Space Forces Indo-Pacific aims to be central to deterrence, innovation, and allied cooperation within the region.
As Mastalir concluded, “This isn’t just about building stronger satellites or more agile fighting capabilities. It’s about building a legacy—one that fortifies our shared values and affirms our belief in a better, brighter future.”